When it comes to the college application, some parts are easy to understand. Take tough courses. Get good grades. Write a strong essay. But when students are also encouraged to “get involved,” it’s hard for them to know exactly where to begin, and understandably so. For freshmen in particular, high school is a new experience with a wide variety of clubs, organizations, teams, and activities to be a part of, and getting involved in just a few of those activities can enrich your child’s four-year experience in high school.

So where do you begin? Before helping your child decide what it is he may want to do, it’s important to first spend some time looking at what his passions and talents are, the time he has committed to each of his current activities, and how much he enjoys participating in those activities. The start of high school can be a great opportunity to make changes to your student’s extracurricular involvements, or to introduce her to something new. Remember, this isn’t just the first step in her new academic career, it’s also her introduction to a brand new community.

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The Insider: College Admissions Advice from the Experts is where College Coach experts weigh in on the latest college admissions topics. We cover everything from application timelines and strategies to tips on financing your child's education.